Axford provides the Dodgers with some much-needed relief help in the later innings out of the bullpen.

As part of the deal for Dozier, the Dodgers sent veteran second-baseman Logan Forsythe to Minnesota and two prospects: Luke Raley and Devin Smeltzer.

NBC LA reporter Michael Duarte was one of the first to break the news of the trade after sources informed him of the players involved.

Dozier has been a major part of the Twins lineup since 2012. The 31-year-old made the All-Star team in 2015, but once again became the subject of trade rumors as the Twins fell out of post-season contention this season after a surprise playoff appearance last year.

More importantly, Dozier was a Gold Glove winner in 2017, at a position that the Dodgers have struggled with defensively. He is batting .224 with 16 homeruns and 52 RBIs this season.

Meanwhile, Raley, who struggles defensively, is an offensive stud at Double-A Tulsa with the Dodgers organization, and a player that a lot of opposing teams had their eyes on in trade talks.

Fans might remember Smeltzer from spring training as his heartwarming story was featured on SportsNet LA’s series “Backstage Dodgers.”

Smeltzer was diagnosed with cancer at the age of ten and during his battle with the disease, he made a vow to never stray from his life’s passion of playing baseball.

Smeltzer was a diehard fan of the Philadelphia Phillies growing up and his only wish was to meet his favorite player: Chase Utley.

He was granted that wish, and ten years later after signing with the Dodgers, was able to meet Utley again, face-to-face, courtesy of Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

Axford is a former closer who appeared in 45 games with the Toronto Blue Jays this season. He is 3-0 with a 3.86 ERA. In return, the Dodgers traded Corey Copping, a minor-league pitcher that has spent time with both Double-A Tulsa and Triple-A Oklahoma City this season.

Over the span of 10 MLB seasons, Axford, a former closer, has recorded 144 saves while bouncing from the Brewers, Cardinals, Indians, Pirates, Rockies, and Athletics.

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Source: NBC Los Angeles